At the forefront of Afrobeats’ global takeover are the “Big 3” — Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy. With their unique styles and undeniable talent, they’ve not only put Afrobeats on the map but have also inspired a whole new generation of artists.
In this edition of #BumpThis, we’re highlighting career-defining songs from each of the Big 3. From Wizkid’s soulful melodies to Davido’s energetic bops and Burna Boy’s socially conscious anthems, we’re diving into the songs that have reverberated their names time and time again.
Holla At Your Boy — Wizkid
When Wizkid dropped this song in 2010, he was the coolest kid Nigerian teenagers of that era had seen. “Holla At Your Boy” was everywhere, vibrating: “When you see me come around, I gat you looking at me.” High-school love wanted to wound Wiz, just as the young listeners of that era. Well, they aren’t kids again but we’ll always remember this hit.
Dami Duro — Davido
The O.B.O (Omo Baba Olowo, meaning “wealthy man’s son”) the nickname everyone, far and wide, calls Davido now came from “Dami Duro”. That was the track that introduced him to the mainstream and launched him to stardom. His ask to the gatekeepers was simple: “E ma Dami duro, emi omo baba olowo—”Don’t stop me, I’m a wealthy man’s son.”
Like to Party — Burna Boy
At a time when mainstream music’s tempo was hyper-fast and the fashion of the musician stars was mostly checked shirts, branded tees, jeans, and large sunglasses, Burna Boy arrived in Versace shades and shirts, unbuttoned and chest bare. He was ready to party and take the music slow. It is always a certified party starter at anytime.
Ojuelegba — Wizkid
Ojuelegba is a bustling place in Lagos Mainland. It’s where Wizkid grew up, honed his musical talent and recorded his first songs. It’s only right that he sings about it and his experiences there. This song is also one of the earliest Afrobeats crossovers. Its remix features Skepta and Drake.
If — Davido
There are not many Afrobeats songs that’re certified diamond by the US’s Recording Industry Association of America. Davido’s “If” is one. “If I tell you say I love you o / My money, my body na your own o, baby / 30 billion for the account o” is hall-of-fame worthy. Davido courts and assures his babe of his loyalty to her, with some cash to support. Love is sweeter when money enters.
Ye — Burna Boy
One of the biggest songs on Burna Boy’s Outside
A jam about Nigerian daily struggles and aspirations that also makes parties fun.
Essence — Wizkid feat. Tems
Wizkid collaborated with Tems to create a song. The result is “Essence,” a Grammy-nominated song. No lead single for the Made in Lagos album would have been better. It’s a love song. Both singers hold the position of a lover, singing of commitment and possibly a lifelong affair. Thanks to the success of this song and her preparation to meet opportunities, Tems has gone on to be a global star and is now a solo Grammy-nominated artist.
UNAVAILABLE — Davido feat. Musa Keys
You can take this song and play it as a response to almost any situation you don’t want to be in or any person you don’t want in your presence. It features a South African singer and producer. When you do this song, don’t forget to do the dance—you have to go all the way.
Last Last — Burna Boy
Burna Boy sang his heart out in “Last Last” which he released after his breakup with Stefflon Don. When the pain wouldn’t go away quickly, igbeaux and shayo numbed it. Aside from the sweet melody, another beauty of this song is its acceptance worldwide—one of 2023’s biggest songs.
B. D’OR — Burna featuring Wizkid
Wiz and Burna linked up to throw a party on “B. D’OR” (meaning “Balloon D’or”), the biggest award given to the best international footballer of the year. It’s their interpretation of being the best acts of the year. The only issue here is: only one person goes home with the Balloon D’or. You can give the award to whoever you like at the end of the playlist.
PS: Can they put their BS aside and do something together? We can only live in hope.
